I missed you guys yesterday! I got sucked into a project that I never imagined would have taken as long as it did. It was pretty crazy.
At first, I was just going to make a quick video when I was waiting in the car while Drew and Nathaniel were inside Fred Meyer. I couldn’t finish in time, so I went to another location, and then another. I guess this has taught me that I prefer shooting outside in fun places around the city, even if I look like a freak show that’s talking to herself.
So, here’s why I made the video. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about my business. It’s been a year since I took on my first client. Lately I’ve had to spend too much time on activities that I’m not that fond of that also aren’t always profitable. When I see myself in that spot I start questioning my intentions. Why did I start my business? Who are my perfect ideal awesome clients? What kinds of projects make me super excited? How can I spend more time doing the things that I’m good at and I really love to do?
Honestly, I’ve been afraid to commit. Afraid to get too narrow, even though that’s what we’re taught to do. It’s literally written in the business posts and classes of every person that I respect and trust. My friends have pointed out the hesitancy in my copy. My husband gave me his opinion (and said the very same thing) just this weekend.
I’ve shied away from really speaking to the people I want to work with, instead casting a wider net with vague terms like “businesses of all sizes.” I did it because no matter how many times I heard, “Communicate directly to the person you want to work with,” I was still worried that having too specific of a target market would keep me out of the running for projects that I needed to land.
So it’s time to revisit my market research days and remind myself that it’s okay if the 55 year-old females don’t want to see the latest installment of the Saw franchise. There are plenty of other people who do. (I assume so anyway…is it still around?)
So, here we are. One year later. I’m making some changes, starting with this announcement. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Not about my videography skills. I’m working on it! Gosh!
I’m curious, creative entrepreneurs. Do you specialize? Do you get really focused and specific about the clients you want to work with most? How has it impacted your business? xoxo
P.S. Sheri interviewed me on Donuts, Dresses, and Dirt yesterday and we talked about how the exercises in Blog with Purpose can be used for much more than blogging. I honestly never thought about it until she brought it up.